Fighting Floyd: What Next for Mayweather

Floyd Mayweather's decision over Canelo Alvarez on Saturday night was just another impressive notch on the big championship belt that rests in the possession of Mayweather. His combination of defense, quickness and counterpunches were typical of Mayweather's stellar career and improved his record to 45-0, setting him up for the next challenge in his boxing career. But what will it be? Will it be a final dream showdown with Manny Pacquiao, a dream that’s slowly losing its luster? Or could it be retirement or possibly another fight? Stephen D. Riley and Perry Green of the AFRO Sports Desk debate the question.

Riley: Mayweather doesn't really have anything left to do. He's beaten all of his challengers and done so in a fashion and bravado not seen since Muhammad Ali. A fight with Pacquiao doesn't seem as appetizing as it was a few years ago so there isn't as much demand for that fight as it was when the idea first came up with both fighters in their prime. Honestly, I think Mayweather has earned the right to retire in peace. He's not going to be given any lip about not fighting Pacquiao and can anybody remember the last time he was seriously challenged?

Green: I agree with you Riley that a fight with Pacquiao isn't as demanding as it used to be, especially with Pacquiao avoiding drug tests, but retirement should be the least of his thoughts right now. A rematch with Alvarez should be next on the menu and, as we saw on Saturday night, Mayweather still has a lot left in the tank. He's still the premiere ticket in town and, even at age 36, another two to three years of high level boxing is not too far out of the realm of possibilities for this prize fighter.

Riley: I'm always leery of aging boxers because the chance for a loss is greatly increased. We're going to remember Mayweather for a lot of things but his undefeated record is one that stands out. To jeopardize that against some young contender looking to make a name for himself is too great a risk for Mayweather. He's cocky, arrogant, and he's also a smart businessman who knows that his stature revolves around his undefeated track. A loss wouldn't crack everything that Mayweather has built but it undoubtedly would blemish what he's done to this point.

Green: Floyd isn't going to run from a challenge just to preserve his undefeated record so retirement at age 36 is completely out the question. He's 36, Riley, not 46. We can and should expect to see him compete at a high level for the next few seasons. Bottom line: this fighter isn't going anywhere any time soon. And as much as you want to see him fail he simply doesn't.